Pakistan, sent into bat by the World XI, hit 197-5 in the first Twenty20 as the nation celebrated the return of international cricket under massive security in Lahore today.

Pakistan, sent into bat by the World XI, hit 197-5 in the first Twenty20 as the nation celebrated the return of international cricket under massive security in Lahore today. It is only the second time Pakistan has hosted an international match since a 2009 terror attack on the Sri Lankan team bus, also in Lahore.

One-drop batsman Babar Azam top-scored with a 52-ball 86 studded with 10 boundaries and two sixes, adding 122 for the second wicket with Ahmed Shehzad who made 39. World XI skipper Faf du Plessis, who sent Pakistan into bat, hailed the return of cricket to the South Asian nation.

“It’s not about ourselves, great to see we can play a small part in bringing cricket back to Pakistan. There are no egos involved,” said du Plessis. The second and third matches are also in Lahore on Wednesday and Thursday.